Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A first apparatus comprising a processor, a memory, and communication circuitry, the first apparatus being connected to a communications network via its communication circuitry, the first apparatus further comprising computer-executable instructions stored in the memory of the first apparatus which, when executed by the processor of the first apparatus, cause the first apparatus to: a. establish a connection with a second apparatus, the second apparatus comprising an entity managing operations of a first radio access network; b. obtain a first mobility set via communications with the second apparatus, the first mobility set comprising a first list of beams and transmit-and-receive points within the first radio access network; c. derive, based on a measurement of communications conditions with beams and transmit-and-receive points within the first mobility set, a second mobility set.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving mobility management in radio access networks (RANs). The problem addressed is efficiently managing user equipment (UE) mobility by dynamically adjusting beam and transmit-and-receive point (TRP) configurations to optimize connectivity and reduce handover failures. The invention involves a first apparatus, such as a network controller or base station, connected to a communications network. This apparatus includes a processor, memory, and communication circuitry. The apparatus establishes a connection with a second apparatus, which manages operations of a first RAN. Through this connection, the first apparatus obtains a first mobility set—a predefined list of beams and TRPs within the RAN that are initially considered for mobility operations. The apparatus then measures communication conditions (e.g., signal strength, latency) with these beams and TRPs. Based on these measurements, it derives a second mobility set, which is a refined or updated list of beams and TRPs that are more suitable for ongoing or future mobility decisions. This dynamic adjustment helps maintain stable connections as the UE moves within the network, reducing unnecessary handovers and improving overall performance. The invention enhances mobility management by leveraging real-time measurements to optimize beam and TRP selection.
2. The first apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the second mobility set comprises: a. a first set of beams, where the first set of beams comprises beams of the first apparatus selected based on one or more beam forming options for the communications circuitry of the first apparatus; and b. a second set of beams, where the second set of beams comprises one or more beams of the transmit-and-receive points of the second apparatus.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for managing mobility in heterogeneous networks with multiple transmit-and-receive points. The problem addressed is optimizing beam selection and mobility handling in networks where devices communicate with multiple access points or base stations, particularly in scenarios involving beamforming and coordinated multi-point transmission. The invention describes an apparatus configured to communicate with a second apparatus, where the second apparatus includes multiple transmit-and-receive points. The apparatus includes communications circuitry and a controller. The controller is configured to determine a first mobility set and a second mobility set. The first mobility set includes beams associated with the apparatus itself, while the second mobility set includes beams from both the apparatus and the second apparatus. The second mobility set is further divided into a first set of beams, which are selected from the apparatus based on beamforming options, and a second set of beams, which are beams from the transmit-and-receive points of the second apparatus. The controller uses these sets to manage mobility and beam selection, improving communication reliability and efficiency in dynamic network environments. The invention aims to enhance mobility management by dynamically adjusting beam selection based on network conditions and available transmit-and-receive points.
3. The first apparatus of claim 2 , the computer-executable instructions further cause the apparatus to: a. select, based on a second beam selected from the second set of beams, a first beam from the first set of beams or the second set of beams; b. use the first beam for communications; c. observe a status change of the first apparatus, where the status change is a mobility event or a change in the angle or orientation of the first apparatus; d. select, based on the status change, a third beam from the first set of beams; e. switch to using the third beam for communications.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically beam selection and switching in environments where device mobility or orientation changes affect signal quality. The problem addressed is maintaining reliable communication links when a device's movement or orientation alters the optimal beam path between a transmitter and receiver. The apparatus includes a processor and memory storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions enable the apparatus to select a first beam from either a first set of beams or a second set of beams, where the selection is based on a second beam chosen from the second set. The first beam is then used for communications. The apparatus monitors for status changes, such as mobility events or changes in the device's angle or orientation. Upon detecting such a change, the apparatus selects a third beam from the first set of beams and switches to using this third beam for communications. This dynamic beam selection and switching process ensures continuous and stable communication links despite environmental or device position variations. The system adapts to real-time conditions by continuously evaluating beam performance and adjusting selections accordingly.
4. The first apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the computer-executable instructions further cause the apparatus to: a. select, based on a second beam selected from the second set of beams, a first beam from the first set of beams; b. use the first beam for communications; c. observe a status change of the first apparatus, where the status change is a mobility event or a change in the angle or orientation of the first apparatus; d. alter, based on the status change, a characteristic of the first beam.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically beam selection and adaptation in millimeter-wave (mmWave) or other high-frequency communication environments where directional beams are used. The problem addressed is maintaining reliable communication links when device mobility or orientation changes, which can disrupt beam alignment and degrade signal quality. The apparatus includes a processor and memory storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions enable the apparatus to select a first beam from a first set of beams based on a second beam chosen from a second set of beams. The first beam is then used for communication. The apparatus monitors for status changes, such as mobility events (e.g., device movement) or changes in the apparatus's angle or orientation. Upon detecting such a change, the apparatus adjusts a characteristic of the first beam to maintain communication quality. This characteristic could include beam direction, width, power, or other parameters. The second set of beams may be associated with a different communication node (e.g., a base station or another device), and the selection of the first beam is influenced by the second beam's properties. The system dynamically adapts to environmental or device changes to ensure stable communication links in dynamic scenarios. This approach is particularly useful in mmWave systems where beam alignment is critical due to high path loss and directional transmission.
5. The first apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the computer-executable instructions further cause the first apparatus to use joint transmission or reception via a plurality of beams.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving data transmission and reception efficiency in multi-beam environments. The problem addressed is the need for more reliable and efficient communication in scenarios where multiple beams are used to transmit or receive data, such as in advanced wireless networks like 5G or beyond. The invention describes an apparatus that includes a processor and memory storing computer-executable instructions. The apparatus is configured to manage communication using multiple beams, where the beams can be used for either transmission or reception. The apparatus can coordinate joint transmission or reception, meaning it can simultaneously use multiple beams to send or receive data, enhancing throughput and reliability. This is particularly useful in environments with high interference or where signal quality varies across different beams. The apparatus may also include a transceiver for wireless communication and an antenna array to support the multiple beams. The instructions stored in memory enable the apparatus to dynamically adjust beam configurations based on network conditions, ensuring optimal performance. This approach helps mitigate issues like signal fading and interference, improving overall communication efficiency in multi-beam wireless systems. The invention is applicable in base stations, user devices, or other network nodes where multi-beam communication is employed.
6. The first apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the computer-executable instructions further cause the first apparatus to determine a threshold for the status change, where the threshold is based at least in part on the width of the second beam.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and controlling the status of a beam, particularly in industrial or structural applications where beam integrity is critical. The problem addressed is the need for precise and adaptive monitoring of beam status changes, such as deformation or displacement, to ensure safety and operational efficiency. The system includes a first apparatus with a sensor configured to detect a status change in a first beam, such as a change in position, shape, or structural integrity. The apparatus also includes a second beam positioned relative to the first beam, where the second beam has a measurable width. The system uses computer-executable instructions to analyze sensor data and determine a threshold for detecting significant status changes in the first beam. This threshold is dynamically adjusted based on the width of the second beam, allowing for more accurate and context-aware monitoring. For example, if the second beam's width changes due to environmental factors or load variations, the threshold for detecting a status change in the first beam is recalibrated accordingly. This adaptive approach improves reliability by reducing false positives or missed detections, ensuring timely intervention when the beam's status deviates from acceptable parameters. The system is particularly useful in applications where beam stability is critical, such as in construction, manufacturing, or infrastructure monitoring.
7. The first apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the computer-executable instructions further cause the apparatus to determine, based at least in part on a measurement of received power, received quality, signal to noise interference ration, or strength indicator of a reference signal received via the first beam, a threshold for the status change.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to apparatuses and methods for managing beam status changes in millimeter-wave (mmWave) or other high-frequency wireless networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable beam switching in wireless communication systems where signal conditions can rapidly fluctuate due to environmental factors, mobility, or interference. The apparatus includes a processor and memory storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed, perform beam management functions. The apparatus is configured to establish a communication link using a first beam and monitor the link quality. The instructions further cause the apparatus to determine a threshold for triggering a status change (e.g., beam switching or link reconfiguration) based on measurements of received power, received quality, signal-to-noise interference ratio, or a strength indicator of a reference signal received via the first beam. This threshold-based approach ensures that beam switching occurs only when necessary, improving stability and reducing unnecessary overhead in the network. The apparatus may also include a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals via multiple beams and a controller for managing beam selection and tracking. The system may operate in environments where high-frequency signals are prone to blockage or rapid fading, requiring adaptive beam management to maintain reliable communication. The threshold determination process helps optimize performance by balancing responsiveness to signal degradation with the need to avoid frequent beam changes.
8. The first apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the computer-executable instructions further cause the apparatus to report to the second apparatus the status change and an observation based on the measurement of communications conditions with one or more beams or transmit-and-receive points within the second set of beams of the second mobility set.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to apparatuses and methods for managing mobility and beam selection in networks using multiple beams or transmit-and-receive points. The problem addressed is the need for efficient communication and coordination between devices to optimize connectivity and performance in dynamic environments where signal conditions vary. The invention describes an apparatus that includes a processor and memory storing computer-executable instructions. The apparatus is configured to measure communication conditions with one or more beams or transmit-and-receive points within a second set of beams, which are part of a second mobility set. The apparatus detects a status change, such as a change in signal quality or connectivity, and reports this status change along with an observation based on the measured conditions to a second apparatus. This reporting mechanism enables dynamic adjustments to beam selection and mobility management, improving reliability and efficiency in wireless communications. The apparatus may also include a transceiver for wireless communication and may be part of a network node or user device. The instructions further enable the apparatus to perform additional functions, such as selecting beams or transmit-and-receive points based on the measured conditions. The reporting of status changes and observations allows the second apparatus to make informed decisions about beam allocation, handover procedures, or other mobility-related actions, ensuring optimal performance in varying network conditions.
9. The first apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the computer-executable instructions further cause the apparatus to adjust the width of the first beam.
A system for controlling a laser beam in a manufacturing or material processing application addresses the challenge of precisely adjusting beam parameters to achieve desired material interactions. The system includes a laser source generating a first beam with a specific width, a beam adjustment mechanism, and a controller executing instructions to modify the beam's width. The adjustment mechanism may include optical components such as variable apertures, beam expanders, or spatial light modulators that dynamically alter the beam's cross-sectional dimensions. The controller monitors process conditions, such as material properties or environmental factors, and adjusts the beam width accordingly to optimize cutting, welding, or marking operations. This adjustment ensures consistent material processing quality by compensating for variations in input parameters or workpiece characteristics. The system may also incorporate feedback mechanisms to verify the beam width and make real-time corrections. By dynamically controlling the beam width, the system enhances precision, efficiency, and reliability in laser-based manufacturing processes.
10. The first apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the computer-executable instructions further cause the apparatus to, after reporting to the second apparatus the status change, perform an on-demand beamforming training procedure with a selected transmit-and-receive point.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving beamforming training efficiency in multi-node networks. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in current systems where beamforming training occurs periodically, leading to unnecessary overhead and delays when communication patterns are dynamic. The solution involves an apparatus that monitors communication status changes between nodes and triggers on-demand beamforming training only when needed, reducing resource consumption and improving performance. The apparatus includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the apparatus to detect a status change in communication with a second apparatus, such as a change in signal quality or traffic load. Upon detecting such a change, the apparatus reports the status change to the second apparatus. After reporting, the apparatus performs an on-demand beamforming training procedure with a selected transmit-and-receive point, optimizing beam alignment based on current conditions. This approach ensures that beamforming training is performed only when beneficial, conserving energy and bandwidth while maintaining high-quality communication links. The system is particularly useful in dense wireless networks where dynamic adjustments are critical for efficiency.
11. A first apparatus comprising a processor, a memory, and communication circuitry, the first apparatus being connected to a communications network via its communication circuitry, the first apparatus further comprising computer-executable instructions stored in the memory of the first apparatus which, when executed by the processor of the first apparatus, cause the first apparatus to: a. obtain, via beamforming training, a serving set of beams, the serving set of beams comprising one or more beams for both uplink transmission and downlink reception to and from a second apparatus; b. communicate with the second apparatus via the serving set of beams; c. maintain a candidate set of beams, the candidate set of beams comprising one or more beams having angles relative to beams of the serving set of beams; d. observe a status change of the first apparatus, where the status change is a mobility event or a change in the angle or orientation of the first apparatus; and e. determine, based on the status change, to communicate with the second apparatus using the candidate set of beams.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically beamforming techniques for maintaining reliable connections between devices. The problem addressed is maintaining stable communication links in dynamic environments where device mobility or orientation changes can degrade signal quality. The solution involves a first apparatus with a processor, memory, and communication circuitry connected to a network. The apparatus performs beamforming training to establish a serving set of beams for uplink and downlink communication with a second apparatus. It also maintains a candidate set of beams with angles relative to the serving set. When a mobility event or orientation change occurs, the apparatus detects the status change and switches to the candidate set of beams to maintain communication. This adaptive approach ensures continuous connectivity by proactively adjusting beam configurations based on real-time conditions. The system dynamically manages beam sets to optimize performance in environments with variable device positions or orientations.
12. The first apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the instructions further cause the first apparatus to select one or more beams of the candidate set of beams based on an amount of change in the angle or orientation of the first apparatus.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods and apparatuses for selecting beams in a wireless network to optimize communication performance. The problem addressed is the need for efficient beam selection in dynamic environments where the angle or orientation of a communication device changes, affecting signal quality and reliability. The invention involves a first apparatus configured to communicate with a second apparatus using a set of candidate beams. The apparatus includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the apparatus to determine an angle or orientation of the first apparatus relative to the second apparatus. The instructions further cause the apparatus to select one or more beams from the candidate set based on this angle or orientation to establish or maintain a communication link. Additionally, the apparatus may adjust the selection of beams based on changes in the angle or orientation to ensure optimal signal quality. The beam selection process may involve comparing the current angle or orientation to predefined thresholds or criteria to determine the most suitable beams. The apparatus may also track historical beam performance to refine future selections. This dynamic adjustment helps maintain stable communication links in environments where the device's position or orientation changes frequently, such as in mobile or handheld devices. The invention improves communication reliability and efficiency by adapting beam selection to real-time environmental conditions.
13. The first apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the instructions further cause the first apparatus to: a. monitor a communication quality of the serving set of beams and the candidate set of beams; b. determine, based on a change in the communication quality of the serving set of beams and the candidate set of beams, to communicate with the second apparatus using the candidate set of beams.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically beam management in millimeter-wave (mmWave) or other high-frequency wireless networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable beam switching to maintain high-quality communication links in dynamic environments where signal conditions may fluctuate due to obstacles, interference, or mobility. The invention describes an apparatus that monitors the communication quality of both a serving set of beams (currently active beams) and a candidate set of beams (potential future beams). The apparatus evaluates changes in communication quality, such as signal strength, signal-to-noise ratio, or other performance metrics, to determine whether to switch from the serving set to the candidate set. This decision is based on real-time assessments of beam performance, ensuring seamless and optimal communication with another apparatus (e.g., a user device or base station). The system dynamically adapts to environmental changes, improving reliability and throughput in high-frequency wireless networks. The apparatus may be part of a base station, user device, or other network component, and the beam switching process is automated to minimize latency and disruptions.
14. The first apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the instructions further cause the first apparatus to report, to the second apparatus, information regarding the status change and the candidate set of beams.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically beam management in millimeter-wave (mmWave) networks. The problem addressed is the efficient selection and reporting of candidate beams between communicating devices to maintain reliable communication links in dynamic environments. Traditional beam management methods suffer from high overhead and latency, especially in scenarios with frequent blockages or mobility. The invention describes a system where a first apparatus, such as a user device, identifies a status change in its communication link with a second apparatus, such as a base station. The status change may include signal degradation, blockage, or mobility-induced misalignment. Upon detecting such a change, the first apparatus performs a beam sweep to identify a candidate set of beams that can potentially restore or improve the communication link. The apparatus then reports this candidate set, along with information about the status change, to the second apparatus. This allows the second apparatus to adapt its beamforming strategy accordingly, ensuring continuous and efficient communication. The system may also include mechanisms for prioritizing beams within the candidate set based on signal quality metrics, such as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) or received signal strength indicator (RSSI). The reporting process may be optimized to minimize overhead by selectively transmitting only the most relevant beam information. This approach reduces latency and improves overall system performance in mmWave networks.
15. The first apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the instructions further cause the first apparatus to send a request, to the second apparatus, for beamforming training to be performed by the second apparatus.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically beamforming training in millimeter-wave (mmWave) networks. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in beamforming training between devices, which consumes significant time and energy, especially in high-frequency bands where directional beams are necessary for reliable communication. The invention describes a first apparatus configured to communicate with a second apparatus in a wireless network. The first apparatus includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the apparatus to initiate beamforming training with the second apparatus. The instructions enable the first apparatus to send a request to the second apparatus, prompting the second apparatus to perform beamforming training. This request can include parameters such as training duration, beam patterns, or scheduling information to optimize the training process. The apparatus may also receive feedback from the second apparatus to refine beam alignment. The system improves efficiency by reducing redundant training cycles and dynamically adjusting beamforming parameters based on real-time conditions. This approach is particularly useful in mmWave networks where precise beam alignment is critical for maintaining high data rates and low latency.
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October 13, 2020
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